A Word to worship leaders
One of the most affirming moments in my career was when my co-pastor Jenny turned to me and named that, in my role as worship pastor, I had at least as much theological influence on the church as anyone who preached there.
While I had always taken my role very seriously, constantly deepening my theological curiosity and knowledge, I hadn't really thought about my influence in this way.
But I believe whole-heartedly that she is right: worship leaders, you are shaping your faith community; and probably even more than your preacher(s). Human beings are somatic learners. We've adapted to function in classrooms, relying on listening as a primary way of taking in information, but in reality, we learn by doing, moving, speaking, tasting... the list goes on.
You are choosing rituals and music that connect body, mind, and soul. The songs you choose - the lyrics contained within - are literally being placed inside our bodies. We are far more likely to remember the melodic words that we've sung than anything we heard a preacher say once, no matter how inspirational. Our experiences of communion - tasting the elements - will stay with us (Jesus really knew what he was doing with that one!)
So to my fellow worship leaders, I implore you to think of yourselves as practicing theologians. Read more books, sharpen your ideas, ask more questions. Bring theological inquiry to your song choices. Ask yourself what every lyric says about God and about humanity. Collaborate with other theological leaders in the community for dialogue and alignment.
You are the great host, extending genuine invitation to all kinds of people who walk through the doors. It's up to you to know who your people are - their stories, their diverse backgrounds - and to create spaces for everyone to enter. The art you choose, the quality of artistry you provide, all create a tapestry of welcome.
Your work is vital to the life and direction of your community. Take seriously the mandate of scripture: that to worship well means that we are justice-makers, full-time. May you curate the time of collective worship so that it inspires everyone to do as Micah called us: to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God.